- 1). Read up on why sterling silver tarnishes. Tarnish is nothing more than corrosion at the silver pieces experience oxidation. It is akin to rust, although it happens more slowly and it is caused by sulfur and other chemicals in the air. It creates dark grey, or if not cleaned frequently, black substance that permeates the metal.
- 2). Stay away from areas that get a lot of sun or where it is excessively humid and do not store your sterling jewelry on a wooden counter because it might contain chemicals that will hasten tarnish.
- 3). Find a container to store your sterling silver jewelry. One that reduces the air is desireable because it will slow down the corrosion. Zippered plastic bags are great to use because they keep the air out and they are free from abrasives, but stay away from bags made of PVC because they contain chemicals that will speed up the corrosive process. For a bit more money, you can find containers at jewelry stores that are made especially for sterling silver jewelry.
- 4). Place chalk into your container of sterling silver jewelry, because it will help absorb corrosive chemicals found in the air. You can also find special cloths at jewelry stores that are chemically treated and contain a small amount of silver to attract corrosive chemicals, including sulfur, that are found in the air. Finally, shoe boxes and bottles of pills often contain packs of silica to help absorb moisture. Rather than throw them out, put them into the container of your sterling silver jewelry.
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